Sport anglers, there is a growing problem in America today. There are a growing number of new species of plant life and animal life being introduced to our public and private waters. In many cases, our waters don't have the means to support these new species without creating havoc on the ecosystems we love and respect. These new plants and animals are starving out our normal balance of plants and predators that keep our beautiful water in a balanced eco-system. Most of the contamination and cross contamination is caused by lack of knowledge, as well as poor fishing techniques.

The increasing number of people traveling in and out of our country, as well as the increasing mobility of anglers throughout the country is costing sport anglers and commercial fishermen billions of dollars each year. We as sport fishermen and concerned citizens can help maintain our beautiful waterways, rivers, lakes and streams with a little effort and knowledge of our environmental eco-systems.

How You Can Help Our Fish

• * While our federal, state and local governments are fighting these problems, we can do our part by following some simple rules. Here are some guidelines, use them and research the local governmental agencies for any additional help you can provide.


• * Get yourself informed and buy fishing license. These funds will support your state and local agencies fight the growing number of problems.


• * Before transporting any live species of plants and animals to your favorite location, be it recreational, or your privately owned cabins or properties, first check with local authorities to see if they may hurt the environment. Don't assume they will be ok, always check out.


• * While traveling from lake to lake or stream in your boat, always wash your boat and equipment before placing it in the water.


• * If you are a wade fisherman, wash your waders and boots thoroughly before you enter a new stream, lake or waterway. You might pick up some eggs, spores or seeds that will cross contaminate the water. Wash your fishing gear that has been in the water or on the land for the same reasons.


• * If you catch an unknown species, before releasing it, have the local authorities check it out first. This species may be dangerous to the ecosystem. The basic rule is when in doubt, check it out.


• * If you are a scuba diver, snorkeler, or just a swimmer, wash your clothes before you enter a new water source. You may inadvertently cross contaminate. You don't want to be the one who ruined the waters.


• * If you buy bait for fishing, do not throw any unused bait into the water. There might be some eggs or other contaminants. You can either return them to the source you bought them or find out the proper way of getting rid of it.


These rules may sound difficult or time consuming, but we as citizens must do our part if we want to save our precious waters. In some cases, not following these rules will result in heavy fines. By following these rules, we can do our part in conserving our precious waters. Enjoy the water and have fun.